Old Red Lion

The Old Red Lion is a pub and playhouse in Islington, London, described by its official site as '600 years young' and 'Born in 1415.' It combines a pub serving pints and hand-made Neapolitan-style pizzas with a fringe theatre that first opened its doors in 1979. The theatre presents itself as the Off-West End home of exceptional, ambitious and challenging theatre, ranging from world premieres of new plays to acclaimed revivals, and supports emerging theatrical talent.

The Old Red Lion describes itself as 'Born in 1415' and 'Reborn countless times since,' a pub that has seen six centuries of London life. Its theatre first opened its doors in 1979 and is described as one of London's oldest and most loved theatre venues. The venue presents itself as the Off-West End home of exceptional, ambitious and challenging theatre, ranging from world premieres of new plays to acclaimed revivals of significant productions. Esteemed artists including Abi Morgan, Joe Penhall, Kathy Burke, Olly Alexander, Stephen Daldry, Penelope Skinner and Nina Raine had early work presented on its stage. Jack Dugan has been Artistic Director since May 2023, and his resident company MediumRare Productions has produced shows including Triskaidekaphobia, Demetrius Wakes, Midwyntar, Edging, Pilgrimage, Digging Up Appearances, The Lodger, Green, It's Gonna Be Me, We Lost The File! and the 20th anniversary revival of The Sociable Plover by Tim Whitnall, winning Best Two-Hander at the London Pub Theatre Awards 2025.

Off-West End home of exceptional, ambitious and challenging theatre; a pub and playhouse where rebels, writers, and regulars have gathered for generations.

• The Pub

  Pints poured with care and hand-made Neapolitan-style pizzas fired hot and fresh every day.

• The Theatre

  Unapologetic fringe theatre that's been breaking hearts and boundaries since 1979.

1. 1Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouse – Unapologetic Theatre. Strong Drinks. Stories & Mischief.weareoldred.co.uk
2. 2About Us – Old Red Lion Pub & Playhouseweareoldred.co.uk